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The Sentiments and Meanings of Rose Colors

By Chris Jones
Share to PinterestThe Sentiments and Meanings of Rose Colors
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Since ancient times, special meaning has been attributed to different colors and species of flowers. Roses have always represented love, in general, but the specific significance changes with the colors of the petal. If you want your gift of roses to carry with it an inherent message, you'll need to understand the meaning behind each color.

01

Red

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It should be no surprise that a red rose represents romantic love and passion. Red roses have long been the go-to gift for couples celebrating Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and birthdays. The more vibrant the shade, the more passionate the feeling. When red roses are a part of a bridal bouquet, they represent deep respect and appreciation of your partner.

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02

White

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The color white almost always represents purity or innocence, and white roses are no exception. Some cultures view white roses as “bridal flowers,” and weddings themselves signify new beginnings. White roses also have ties to young love and eternal loyalty, making them great gifts for any newly blooming romance.

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03

Pink

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Roses are available in many shades of pink, and each one signifies something different. Lighter pinks tend to represent gentleness and appreciation, making it a great choice for anyone, including your mom, sister, or a close friend. As the shade of pink darkens, it signifies stronger and more personal feelings. Many cultures view pink roses as signs of gratitude or appreciation, while others believe they indicate grace and happiness.

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04

Peach

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While they’re not as common as others, peach roses still appear in many bouquets and gift baskets, imparting a gentle beauty to the arrangement. Peach roses convey a sense of gratitude while also indicating modesty or sincerity. Many businesses give peach roses as gifts after closing a deal. If you wish to give someone a bouquet but aren’t sure of what color to pick, peach is a safe choice.

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05

Yellow

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Flower language and the meanings of each color have changed over the years. Originally, yellow roses symbolized jealousy or envy. However, the modern interpretation is that a yellow rose is a sign of friendship and compassion. Because it is such a warm and delightful color, yellow roses are an easy way to brighten someone’s day. They’re great for wishing someone luck or welcoming them back after an absence.

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06

Orange

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While red represents love and yellow indicates friendship, orange is the bridge between the two. Orange roses are more passionate than yellow but not quite as intense as red. They can be great gifts for close friends or for that special someone if you’re not comfortable with the symbolism of a red rose. Like yellow, orange roses have innate energy and can liven up any room.

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07

Lavender

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When it comes to stunning roses, lavender makes quite an impression. Because of their unique and charming appearance, lavender roses have ties to wonder and enchantment. Many people believe they represent the beauty of love at first sight. When trying to convey your feelings to someone who has captured your heart, lavender roses are a perfect choice.

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08

Green

Share to PinterestThe Sentiments and Meanings of Rose Colors

Green is the color of growth, life, and rejuvenation. While you won’t be able to find a naturally-occurring rose with vibrantly green petals, there are many options with softer tones. Because of this gentle coloration, the roses fit almost any occasion. Whenever someone in your life has a significant personal achievement, consider giving them a green rose to celebrate their growth.

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09

Burgundy

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Thanks to their deep coloration, burgundy roses have a very specific meaning: unconscious beauty. Generally, more saturated colors represent stronger sentiments. Because of the richness that burgundy roses possess, some people view them as signifying the strongest possible passion. This color is ideal for people who are madly in love or who have a deeply intimate relationship.

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10

Black

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Roses don’t naturally grow deep black petals, but there are many “black” roses with petals of incredibly dark shades of red or purple. Black roses have appeared in fiction for hundreds of years, often with a mysterious and dark meaning. For many people, black roses are symbols of sadness or mourning. However, they may also indicate a powerful change or development. Black roses are great gifts for the non-traditionalists who love the shape and perfection of roses but aren't a fan of the peppier shades.

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11

Blue

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Blue roses are often seen as unattainable and mysterious. That's because Mother Nature doesn't naturally produce this color, making these flowers even more coveted. When you gift a blue rose, the recipient receives something special. It's a gesture that says, "You're unique, and there's no one quite like you." In a world of common reds and whites, a blue rose stands out, making it the perfect gift for someone exceptional.

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12

Cream

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Gentle and unassuming, cream roses have a soft hue that sits somewhere between stark white and deep yellow. They are the epitome of charm and thoughtfulness. When you present someone with a bouquet of these flowers, you're saying, "I value our bond, and I think of you often." It's a subtle way to convey deep sentiments without being overwhelming. Perfect for moments when words might fail, these roses speak volumes about your feelings.

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13

Salmon

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Salmon roses have a vibrant hue that mixes pink and orange and represents desire and excitement. Their color is intense, yet not overpowering, suggesting passionate feelings that are still growing. Gifting salmon roses is like sharing a secret longing or expressing a newfound affection. They're perfect for those moments when you want to convey your feelings without saying too much. In fact, these flowers speak of a new desire that's full of potential.

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14

Rainbow

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Rainbow roses are a vibrant celebration of diversity and joy. Each petal tells a different story, representing the different emotions and experiences that make up life. When you gift a bouquet of rainbow roses, you're not just giving flowers; you're sharing a message of hope and unity. They remind us that after every storm, there's a rainbow, and in every challenge, there's an opportunity. These roses are a testament to the beauty of diversity and the strength that comes from harmony.

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15

Purple

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The next time you see purple roses in the store, you'll think about them very differently! These flowers are symbols of enchantment and love at first sight, and they speak of chance encounters that turn into lifelong relationships. When you present someone with purple roses, you're saying, "From the moment I met you, I was enchanted." It's a bold declaration of love, perfect for those who believe in love stories and fairy-tale endings. In a bouquet, they stand out, much like the feelings they represent, making them the ideal choice for romantic occasions.

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